A Portland-based seafood wholesaler and processor has opened an office in a nearby workspace designed to foster collaboration with other “blue economy” businesses.
Bristol Seafood LLC said Wednesday it will occupy space at the New England Ocean Cluster, a marine-focused business incubator at 68 Commercial St., less than half a mile from Bristol’s headquarters on the Portland Fish Pier.
The company will also sponsor Inclusion in the Blue Economy, a program to encourage under-represented entrepreneurs — including women, people of color and individuals from other industries — to enter the marine sector. The program will dedicate three workspaces for the new entrants, according to a news release.
The NEOC was founded in 2015, in partnership with the Icelandic Ocean Cluster in Reykjavik, Iceland. The goal of both clusters is to connect people within the ocean economy and encourage innovative, sustainable products and business practices.
In June, the Portland cluster moved into a renovated 8,500-square-foot space, formerly the site of the Portland Science Center, which closed in 2018 after three years of operation. The “Hus” (Icelandic for house, or building) now includes 20 glass-front offices, meeting areas and ample teleconnectivity.
The NEOC said in January it had received eight letters of intent to lease offices.
Bristol President and CEO Peter Handy said in the release, “Our presence at the New England Ocean Cluster and our sponsorship to support under-represented entrepreneurs aligns with our mission to make seafood America’s favorite protein.
“Innovation and inclusion are two essential parts of our culture, and our office at the New England Ocean Cluster and founding sponsorship of Inclusion in the Blue Economy reflect that.”
NEOC Founder and President Patrick Arnold noted that Bristol has supported the cluster since its launch, and that the company’s “focus on sustainability, innovation and growth of the local seafood economy are fundamental for the success of the Blue Economy in New England.
“I look forward to fostering a space where they and others can continue this important work.”
